Rwanda’s Gishwati Mukura National Park is a vibrant, diverse reserve situated in the western part of Rwanda. The allure covers over 34 square kilometers across two forest chambers, which are Gishwati and Mukura. The 2 are connected by a corridor established in 2015. Gishwati Mukura is approximately 150 kilometers away from Kigali City, just near the mighty Lake Kivu. This park is a hub for nature enthusiasts and is home to over 13 primate species. These primates may include chimpanzees and golden monkeys, alongside over 200 bird species. The park is also Rwanda’s fourth national park, as designated in 2015.
Gishwati Mukura remains less trafficked compared to its counterparts which may include Volcanoes or Akagera National park, offering travelers and guests with an intimate wilderness experience. Accommodation options at Gishwati are limited; the Forest of Hope Guest House stands as the only accommodation facility available for crash within or near the park.
Location and Accessibility of Forest of Hope Guest House.
The Forest of Hope Guest House is well situated just outside the Gishwati forest boundary and the park’s main gate, Rubavu District. It’s about a 2 to 3-hour drive from Kigali City, via the Kigali-Rubavu road. Public transport options are also available for guests and travelers, even though they are quite scarce; think of minibuses from Kigali’s Nyabugogo terminal to Rubavu, but they will drop you at Gisenyi. The guest house’s proximity to the park is less than 2 kilometers, and ensures quick access to the trailheads and rangers’ posts, which makes it a convenient hub for all.
The spot is operated and run by the Forest of Hope Association. FHA is a local NGO aimed at conservation and community development. The guest house also offers modest yet well-functioning lodging. There are about eight rooms at the Hotel that can accommodate up to 16 guests, and these don’t come alone but along with a twin bed or a double bed. Each room includes modern furnishings, with a bed under mosquito netting, a small table, and a chair with en suite bathrooms providing hot and cold water showers. Electricity at the spot is solar-powered, reflecting the park’s Eco-friendly vibe. Bedding and towels are provided, and rooms are cleaned neatly daily to give visitors the most unforgettable experience at the hotel.
The guest house also includes a communal lounge, the communal lounge comes with wooden benches, and a standard library of conservation books, good for a relaxation moment after a long safari day. Meals at the dining are exceedingly mouthwatering, it is unbelievable how they are prepared by local staff using ingredients sourced from nearby farms that kind of from farm right to your plate vibe. Breakfast is also included on your platter, and several bites are saved, including bread, eggs, fruit, and Rwanda’s famous teas or coffee. Lunch and dinner are also available for all travelers and guests, offering simple Rwandan dishes such as beans, plantains, and vegetable stews, with occasional chicken or fish options on a good day. Special dietary requests can be accommodated with earlier notice.
As of today, the Forest of Hope Guest House charges about USD 50 per night per person for both bed and breakfast, the payment can be payable in USD or RWF. This payment includes the park entry coordination, but excludes the park fee itself at USD 40 for foreign adults, which is payable to the Rwanda Development Board. Unlike Akagera or Nyungwe forest national park, which boasts several lodges, Gishwati Mukura prioritizes conservation welfare over infrastructure. The spot proceeds to support reforestation and anti-poaching activities, aligning with the park’s restoration goals. Gishwati alone lost 99% of its forest cover by the 1980s before reforming like it is now. Other hotels that are in proximity are the Nearby Gisenyi, which is just 15 kilometers away. Guests can access hotels like Lake Kivu Serena and just other few.
Staying at Forest of Hope Guest House enables travelers and guests to spot the chimpanzees right from their Veranda. Seeing the chimps first from a distance and then closer must be one of the breathtaking experiences. Guests can also engage in golden monkey walks, bird watching excursions and more of the exciting tourism activities in and around the park.
